Boxing
DAZN News Daily Round-Up: Oleksandr Usyk champion status clarified and Pat Brown set for first major title
Allen vs. Hrgovic on DAZN subscription - TOMORROW
DAZN News rounds up the biggest stories on Friday, May 15.
IBF clarify Oleksandr Usyk world heavyweight champion status
As Oleksandr Usyk's fight with kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven on May 23 edges ever closer, the IBF has clarified their stance on the Ukrainian's status as their heavyweight champion.
The fight, which takes place at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, will see Usyk defend his WBC world heavyweight title, but his IBF, WBA and WBO belts will not be up for grabs.
In a statement released on Thursday night, the IBF confirmed they would permit the fight along with what would happen to their world heavyweight title belt if Usyk did lose.
“The IBF Board of Directors convened by video conference and determined that Usyk’s exception request should be granted, subject to the following conditions:
– If Usyk loses, the IBF Heavyweight title will be declared vacant immediately.
– If Usyk wins, the IBF will acknowledge the WBC’s position in the rotation and order the IBF mandatory bout for 180 days thereafter.
– If the WBA grants a special permit, the IBF will acknowledge the WBA’s position in the rotation and order the IBF mandatory bout for 180 days thereafter.”
Frank Warren provides latest on Dubois, Itauma, Wardley
Pat Brown set for British title fight later this year
Pat Brown is set to challenge for his first major title in just his seventh professional fight.
It was confirmed by Matchroom that Brown will face John Hedges for the vacant British cruiserweight title after Viddal Riley vacated the Lonsdale belt.
A location and date will be announced in due course, but Brown has impressed so far since turning professional last year winning all six of his bouts by knockout.
Allen vs. Hrgovic only on DAZN this Saturday
Dave Allen is back in Doncaster to face Filip Hrgovic in a heavyweight showdown this Saturday, May 16. Watch exclusively on DAZN with your subscription. Monthly and annual options available.
